03/04/2026
LA AGONIA EN EL HUERTO
The sacred images of The Agony in the Garden have been lovingly preserved through four generations of the Perez-Flores family. They were originally owned by Facunda Melliza-Perez and her three sisters-in-law, forming the first generation of caretakers. Upon their passing, the images were inherited by their niece, Presentacion Perez-De Vera. During World War II, when Presentacion's home was occupied by the Japanese command, she entrusted the images to her sister, Felisa Perez-Flores (1879-1979), ensuring their protection during a time of great uncertainty. Felisa's daughter, Concepcion Perez Flores, became the next devoted caretaker. Each year, she was faithfully assisted by her nephew, Ramon C. Flores, who traveled annually from Quezon City to Sorsogon to help her prepare and care for the images. Their dedication ensured that the tradition remained vibrant and uninterrupted. After Concepcion's passing in 1997, her loyal household help, Minay, continued caring for the images for one year. The responsibility then passed to Rodolfo Duran Flores and his wife, Cecil, who tended to the images with unwavering devotion until Rodolfo's death in 2007. Cecil continued alone until 2013, when Stellamar C. Flores joined her, strengthening the continuity of this cherished family tradition.
The images themselves consist of two wooden figures-Jesus Christ and the comforting Angel— crafted with detachable parts including the torso, head, arms, and legs. The wood was smoothed with plaster of Paris and gesso before being painted, and the figures were given marble eyes that lend depth and lifelike expression. Christ originally had a brunette wig, now faded with time, while the Angel has a long blond wig. Both figures once bore golden halos, now lost to history. The images are assembled and dressed for procession, with new garments created in 2013 and the paint retouched in 2014. Their craftsmanship and patina suggest they are more than a hundred years old; their age reflected in the devotion with which they have been preserved.
Across war, loss, and the slow passage of time, La Agonia en el Huerto has remained a symbol of steadfast faith. Each generation has carried the responsibility with reverence, ensuring that the images continue to inspire prayer, reflection, and remembrance. More than artifacts, they are vessels of memory preserved not only through skillful hands, but through love, faith, and the enduring commitment of a family who understood their significance. This history is lovingly recounted by Marie de Vera, granddaughter of Presentacion Perez-De Vera, and Stellamar C. Flores, granddaughter of Felisa Perez-Flores.
- Mila Flores
